1971 Ford Mustang vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,726 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (251 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 231 kg more than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Mustang. (146 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4726 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2510 mm |
